Creamed Spinach Recipe: A Rich and Creamy Side Dish
Creamed spinach is a classic and indulgent side dish that combines fresh or frozen spinach with a rich, velvety cream sauce. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for pairing with steak, roasted chicken, or a holiday feast. With its buttery, garlicky, and cheesy flavors, creamed spinach brings a comforting taste to any meal. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a simple weeknight dinner, this creamed spinach recipe will be a go-to favorite.
Nutrition & Instructions
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: ~220 kcal per serving
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Active Time: 15 minutes
- Resting Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Cuisine: American, French
- Course: Side Dish
- Servings: 4
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet or saucepan
- Wooden spoon or whisk
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound fresh spinach (or 16 oz frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, for added flavor)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup cream cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
Instructions
- Prepare the Spinach: If using fresh spinach, wash it thoroughly, remove the stems, and chop if desired. If using frozen spinach, thaw and squeeze out excess moisture.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent (about 3-4 minutes). Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the Spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet, stirring until wilted. If using frozen spinach, add it directly and stir until heated through.
- Make the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring constantly. Season with salt, black pepper, and nutmeg.
- Add the Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in Parmesan cheese and cream cheese. Continue stirring until the cheeses melt and the sauce thickens.
- Simmer and Rest: Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes until creamy. Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Creamed spinach pairs beautifully with grilled steak, roasted chicken, or a holiday turkey. It can also be used as a delicious filling for omelets, pastries, or stuffed chicken breast.
This creamed spinach recipe is rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, making it a fantastic addition to any meal. Try it today and elevate your dinner table with this classic side dish!
I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.